RAF helicopters will swoop over Lyme Regis to kick off this year's annual lifeboat week.

The RNLI fundraising week will be held from Saturday, July 23 until Saturday, July 30 - with events taking place across the town and harbour.

Organisers have revealed that a flypast of RAF Puma helicopters will be part of the opening day of action at this year's event. No time has yet to be announced for the flypast.

This year, the RNLI event will not feature the annual Red Arrows display. Following the transition of search and rescue services from the RAF to a civilian contractor, display charges now apply. Organisers from the life-saving charity said they were unable to find sufficient funds to book a display the iconic jets.

This year's event will also not feature the RAF Falcons parachute team. But organisers are pleased the Puma's will help the week of events start in style.

Chairman of the Lyme Regis and Charmouth RNLI Guild, Irene Roper, said: "We do not have the Red Arrows in lifeboat week this year so this is tremendous news.

“We fully understand that this is a flypast but it is a most valuable contribution to the opening day of our week for which we are truly grateful.

“The RNLI in Lyme Regis has received tremendous support from the RAF over a number of years and we are delighted that this will enable us to maintain the link between our charity and the air force.”

On the opening Saturday, the popular bath tub race will be held at the harbour. Teams wishing to take part are being urged to build their floating creations to try and stop the firefighters from winning their sixth successive trophy. The event will take place at 8pm.

Organisers are also holding a Great Lyme Regis Bake Off competition at this year's event. Judging for the competition will be held at 10.30am at the produce stall on Marine Parade on Monday, July 25 - where lifeboat-themed cakes will be judged by Pam Corbyn of River Cottage fame.

Other events will include kite making, the fun run, duck race, crew bar and a barbecue.

The swimming challenge this year is on Friday, July 29 for adults at 2.30pm and children at 3.00pm. Registration will take place at the RNLI station from 11.45am until 1.45pm.

The full programme of events is now available to buy from the RNLI station and selected shops and businesses across Lyme Regis.